This discussion right here is exactly why it is imperative for a player to go out on top of his game. Unless you were the absolute best at your position (Jerry Rice) then people are only going to remember the last two years. Both Mark Brunell and Steve McNair were highly thought of before their poor play in their later years changed many minds. It is arguable that they were great in their prime. Now they aren't even shadows of their former selves.
Another disappointing thing is that everybody wants to talk about stats keeping them out. I thought that we had learned that stats do not solely make you a Hall of Famer. Apparently, we have learned nothing from the whole Art Monk struggle. McNair is the best QB in Oilers/Titans history (Look it up). Yes, I am aware of Moon and that is my point. Moon is in, but McNair might not ever be.
http://http://www.pro-football-refer...St00.htm?redir
http://http://www.pro-football-refer...M/MoonWa00.htm
I am refering more to the numbers for Houston/ Tenessee. Years are similar, yardage is similar, and TD's Favor Moon. It is compelling however to see that the passer rating, and TD/INT percentage are solely in McNair's favor.